Our annual summertime gig at TO Island's Jazz and Rib Fest As we stepped off the barge, the first thing we noticed was the serene beauty of Toronto Island, with yachts lining the shore and boats drifting peacefully by. As we made our way toward the Royal Canadian Yacht Club, an iconic white building built in 1906, we felt the weight of its history and the sailing stories it could tell. We arrived at our usual spot, where we have played for the past five years, and Scott, the sax player, asked, "Where's the gig?" Nothing was set up, and I wondered if we had the right date. But sure enough, tables and a stage were set up around the corner—what a relief! The air soon filled with the smooth, inviting tones of jazz as we played cocktail music for the arriving guests. Servers, dressed in classic black and white, greeted the newcomers and glided through the crowd, tempting them with delightful appetizers. As the evening unfolded, the vibrant sun dipped below the CN Tower, and the city of Toronto began to sparkle across the lake. The skyline lit up, casting a dazzling dance of glittering lights reflecting on the dark water. The city lights glowed in the distance, providing a beautiful backdrop as we played sweet music that wafted magically across the water dotted with billowing sails. Meanwhile, the light on a pole behind us attracted swarms of tiny bugs. Ethan Ardelli, the drummer, waved his drumsticks frantically to whisk them away, while Nancy Walker squished them against her sheet music and piano keys. I even had a few swimming in my glass of wine! We all waved our hands in the air while playing, and I sang along. It was a glorious celebration of music, food, and even uninvited bugs that makes the RCYC and Toronto so special. I look forward to doing it all again!